Popcorn is a popular snack around the world and there are many varieties of popcorn available to make this tasty snack. However, with the wide variety of options available, it can sometimes be difficult to choose between the different corn varieties.
Grain POP gives you its advice on how to make the best choice of crispy, soft or uniquely flavoredpopcorn and enjoy a delicious tasting experience!
What is popcorn?
Popcorn is a specific variety of corn that has been bred for its ability to pop and produce the popcorn we enjoy.
Unlike sweet or hard corn varieties, popcorn kernels have a higher moisture content and a stronger shell than other varieties, allowing them to burst when heated.
With the naked eye, it is possible to distinguish certain varieties thanks to the color of the ears!
The different types of popcorn
White corn
White corn was imported to Europe following the discovery of America. White popcorn is sweet and very versatile.
Naturally gluten-free and especially suitable for people with gluten intolerance, white popcorn is known to have a softer taste than other varieties of popcorn. White corn on the cob is frequently eaten as a vegetable.
Yellow corn
Yellow corn is a variety of popcorn that has a bright yellow color. It is the most widely grown product today, in part because of its hybrid characteristics that optimize production and crop yield.
It is often considered to have a slightly sweet flavor and a slightly softer texture than white corn. Yellow corn is commonly used to make homemade popcorn.
Red corn
Red popcorn is a variety of corn with a dark red or purple color. Its particularity lies in its color, which can add an interesting visual touch to popcorn preparations.
In terms of taste and texture, red popcorn may have subtle differences from other popcorn varieties: it has a slightly sweet taste or may seem sweeter than yellow popcorn.
Purple corn
Purple popcorn is from the native corn family of Central and South America, where it has been grown for centuries for its nutritional and cultural value. This variety of corn is also known as "Hopi corn" or "Hopi blue corn" because it is traditionally grown by the Hopi tribe of northern Arizona.
Purple popcorn was introduced to the U.S. market in the 1990's and more recently in France as amore exotic and colorful alternative to traditional popcorn.
Purple corn is prized for its distinctive color, which can range from dark purple to deep blue, as well as its mild, slightly sweet flavor.
Choosing your popcorn variety: the essential factors
The flavors of grains
The type of popcorn you want to make may influence your choice of popcorn variety. If you want popcorn with a crisp, crunchy texture, white popcorn may be the best choice.
If you prefer a softer popcorn, yellow pop corn may be best. If you're looking for a sweeter flavor or a more unique look, red or purple popcorn will be your best bet.
The size of the corn kernels
Popcorn kernels can vary in size, which can affect the volume and texture of the popcorn. Larger corn kernels can produce a larger, airier popcorn, while smaller kernels can produce a denser, crunchier popcorn. Cooking times vary depending on kernel size.
The moisture content of the grain
The moisture content of popcorn can affect the quality of the popcorn. Popcorn kernels naturally contain moisture, but some types of corn may have a higher or lower moisture content than others. The optimum moisture content of corn is between 14% and 15% for high quality popcorn.
Grain quality and freshness
The quality and freshness of the popcorn can have an impact on the quality of the final product. It is important to choose high quality popcorn and store it in a tightly sealed jar to maintain its freshness and moisture content.
Choosing the right variety of popcorn can have a significant impact on the quality and flavor of the popcorn you make. There are several important factors to consider before purchasing a bag. Explore the Grain Pop line and discover the perfect variety for a delicious taste experience!